1. Please briefly introduce ‘Somok Sobok’.

Somok Sobok is a lifestyle craft brand that utilizes traditional lacquer work in painting subjects on hardwood. The name ‘Somok Sobok’ means "small happiness from small wood," reflecting our hope that the small things we create will bring small joys to everyday life.

2. What inspired the development of Sobok Box?

Sobok Box is inspired by traditional ‘bokjumeoni’ or ‘lucky bag’. Thinking about what a shame that this traditional item with such good meaning is gradually being forgotten, I thought about ways to make it practical in our daily life. This led to the idea of reinterpreting bokjumeoni as a small box that can be used in various ways.

3.What aspect did you focus on the most in developing the product?

I focused on the process of transferring the unique feel of the pouch fabric of bokjumeoni to hardwood. I spent a considerable amount of time on the overall design to ensure it captured the essence of bokjumeoni. I also paid close attention to harmonizing the characteristics of the lucky pouch, such as the knot, with the mother-of-pearl elements that represent Somok Sobok’s identity.

4. What was the most challenging part of the production process?

To preserve the feel of bokjumeoni, I had to angle the lid at about 10 degrees. However, because the lid is quite small, it was somewhat difficult during the initial stages when cutting the angle with a saw. After several tests, we were able to complete a safe and aesthetically pleasing product.

5.What was the most memorable moment during this contest?

I think it was meaningful to not simply submit a product but to write a business plan. I had never thought about expanding sales and promoting Sobok Box, so it was a great opportunity to go through concrete future business plans.

6. Please share your future plans.

Somok Sobok has been reinterpreting objects that have not been expressed into mother-of-pearl and express them on everyday items. This work aims to shed new light on our traditional craftwork (Najeon) in a familiar way, hoping to integrate tradition back into our daily lives. As an extension of such hope, I plan to continue various activities along this direction.